Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch black grouper.
Reel Adventures
World class Boca Grande Tarpon Fishing Charters in Florida on the flats and back country of Tampa Bay,, Clearwater, St Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, and Charlotte Harbor for tarpon, snook, redfish, permit trout, cobia, and goliath grouper.
Right on Charters
Marathon fishing charters, Fly fishing charters, light tackle spin fishing charters and Family Fun Fishing charters. Fishing the Marathon, Islamorada, Big Pine and Everglades National Park Backcountry. 11 years experience guiding full time in the Florida Keys. Come chase permit, tarpon, bonefish, redfish, snook, snappers,sharks, barracuda, cabin, Goliath grouper and more;.
SW Slam Fishing LLC
Join Captain Jason in reeling in Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Goliath Grouper and more! Catering to all skill levels, expect big fish and a fun adventure!
Florida Inshore Xtream Charters
Boca Grande, Englewood, Pine Island Sound... inshore, nearshore, tarpon and goliath grouper fishing charters.
Coastal Outfitters Sport Fishing Charters
Top-rated New Port Richey, Florida sport fishing charter that specializes in targeting Tarpon, Shark, Goliath Grouper in the Gulf of Mexico
Captain Jody Weis
We offer the best Offshore fishing boats where you might hook into Snook, Shark, Grouper, Snapper, Permit, Barracuda, Cobia, Mackerel and Goliath Grouper.
Best Time to Catch Black Grouper
Black Grouper can be caught year-round in Key West. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Black Grouper
Chasing Black Grouper around Key West means understanding the dynamic underwater landscape. Focus your efforts on the reefs and wrecks further offshore, especially those in the Gulf of Mexico side. These structure-rich areas provide the perfect ambush points for these hard-fighting fish. As previously mentioned, seasonal forage plays a significant role. During the warmer months, look for areas with abundant baitfish schools. Live bait, such as pinfish or grunts, is incredibly effective, but cut bait can also produce results. Adjust your presentation based on the water temperature and current. In cooler water, slow down your retrieve and fish deeper. Also, pay close attention to the tides; grouper often become more active during periods of strong tidal flow. Remember to use heavy tackle, as these fish are notorious for running back into the structure. Be prepared for a battle and hold on tight! Consider checking with local dive shops for recent reports on grouper activity around specific wrecks or reefs.
How to Catch Black Grouper
Black Grouper Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
May 1 - December 31
Daily Bag Limit
1 per harvester per day within the Grouper Aggregate
Size Limit
24-inch minimum total length
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Check FWC regulations for any potential emergency closures or changes to the season. The Grouper Aggregate includes gag, red, scamp, yellowfin, yellowmouth, and black grouper.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the legal size for Black Grouper in Key West, Florida?
You can only keep Black Grouper that are 24 inches or greater in total length. Make sure to measure your catch carefully.
What is the best time of year to fish for Black Grouper in Key West?
The season for Black Grouper in Florida is open from May 1st to December 31st. Plan your fishing trips within this timeframe.
Do I need a saltwater fishing license to catch Black Grouper in Key West, Florida?
Yes, a valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required to fish for Black Grouper and other saltwater species in Key West.
What's the daily bag limit for Black Grouper in the Key West area?
The bag limit is 1 Black Grouper per harvester per day, and this counts toward the Grouper Aggregate. Be aware of all species included in the Grouper Aggregate to avoid going over the limit.
More Black Grouper Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Key West
Ready to Catch Black Grouper in Key West?
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